Asia (Rock): John Wetton (vocals, electric bass); Steve Howe (acoustic guitar, electric guitar, steel guitar); Geoffrey Downes (keyboards); Carl Palmer (drums, percussion).
The 1980s supergroup Asia, comprising members from prog rock heavyweights Yes, King Crimson, and E.L.P., softened prog's elaborate solos and upped its pop quotient, selling 15 million records in the process. Some 25 years after the band's heyday, the four original members of Asia released PHOENIX, a return to vintage musical form. In truth, the band's consistent command of popcraft and instrumental chops makes it sound as if very little time has passed. "Never Again," with its catchy chorus, recalls Asia classics like "The Heat of the Moment." "Alibis" and "An Extraordinary Life" are also highlights. Old-school fans may feel that it doesn't stacks up to Asia's 1982 debut, but PHOENIX does a surprisingly good job of peeling away the years. minimize